Operation Flashpoint Red River Review
Operation Flashpoint Red River Games Page
American gamers already seem to be holding a grudge against Flashpoint Red River and it’s not even due out till June 7th. Why? Well, it could have something to do with the fact that it’s a USMC game that is delayed in the United States but it’s right on time and out in the UK! Hardly seems right does it? Codemasters better hope that the gameplay and graphics make up for a month and a half delay because many people are complaining that they just slapped the troops in the face.
Storyline
The storyline in Flashpoint Red River follows some United States Marines who were deployed initially to Tajikistan to tackle insurgents. However, when China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) gets involved, things turn ugly. This alone sets the game up to rely much more on strategy than what was required in its predecessors. The PLA has an extraordinary army consisting of talented artillery, troops, advanced weaponry and air support.
This means that in Flashpoint Red River, you are not going to be fighting desperate rebels but rather well-trained killers with premium equipment. They will launch attacks regardless if you are at long range, in close quarters and even at night. The marines are grossly outnumbered and will have to plan their battles thoughtfully to get out alive.
Gameplay
The greatest thing about Flashpoint Red River is that you don’t have to go into battle alone. It offers the flexibility to stand together using the four-player drop-in and drop-out mode in online co-op multiplayer as well as stand alone Fire Team Engagements.
If you want a detailed storyline that compliments gameplay, Flashpoint Red River delivers that too. You will become immersed in the intricate narrative that slowly unfolds piece by piece over three acts when playing in campaign mode.
You will have the opportunity to play as an Automatic Rifleman, Traditional Rifleman, Scout and Grenadier, each having unique strengths and their share of very different weaknesses that you will need to learn and adapt to. Of course, these variations provide increased replay time. You will also be able to call in combat support when needed such as JDAMS and Howitzers while ground support is covered by A-10 Ground Attack Aircraft and AH-1Z Helicopters.
Graphics
Without a doubt, Dragon Rising was huge let down in the graphics department. Fortunately, this is just not the case with Flashpoint Red River. The Marines are lifelike and you can almost feel the breeze coming off the blades of the approaching helicopter. Not only is the detail exquisite up close, distant villages and snow-capped mountains that have been thoughtfully created in the background add to the realism of being in battle with these fearless men.
Conclusion
There’s been a lot of anticipation over this game, rightfully so. It is everything you’ve expected and hoped for. Flashpoint Red River will give you more than what you’re looking for in this installment. That is, if you ever get your fingers on it. Codemasters certainly didn’t make any new friends in America, making gamers listen to how great their Marine troops are from European dwellers already finishing up the campaign. A week delay is one thing, this might just be unforgivable.
8 / 10